After many of us regretfully ripped up our mega millions lotto tickets when we heard 2 people in Ohio were cashing in there seems to be a bigger winner. I was never a fan of this state and the brief time i spent there was only Lebron James at the time who wanted out more than I did however the story of the “Man with the Golden Pipes” from Columbus Ohio has made me begin to feel otherwise.
Ted Williams was a homeless man down and out on his luck, trying to recover from a life wasted to alcohol and drugs by panhandling on the side of the rode using none other than his god given radio voice.
It wasn’t until a video was posted displaying Ted’s talents went viral that he was discovered:
This man may be the story of the new year and his genuine warrior mentality is something to take note of in these hard times. If you listen to him in this interview you can get a glimpse of who he is and how far he’s come.
Some may say it’s his own fault, his life ended up where it was and I and probably Ted will agree to that. But sometimes we must suffer and fall before we get back up again and grow. Change can not happen without a cause. Maybe to reach his full potential as a person this was necessary. That may be cold hearted but life is more ruthless than anyone can imagine, I believe the faith, perseverance, and heart it took to overcome the situation Ted was in is a shining example to all of us who are hurting and in bad times to have hope, it IS possible. Remember though It’s not easy to do what Ted did otherwise there would be a hundred stories a month about guys like him and we would never have given this story a second glance.
I think what’s even more powerful to me about the video of Ted panhandling is that he does it with a smile and is even chuckling and laughing. He’s not bitter or angry, he hasnt given up on himself or life. He seems at peace, that is important and lesson to be learned by all of us who stress and become angered especially towards others over insignificant things like overload at work, who didn’t clean the dishes at home, or the damn dog barking.
I celebrate Ted today as a symbol that the warrior spirit lives in us all. That we as human beings are much more capable than starbucks latte’s and gucci designer bags, sometimes we recognize it other times we have no choice. What do you think about Ted’s story? and Where would you like to hear his voice next?
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A well written story. It’s a great example of how modern media can facilitate a transformation. Thanks for sharing.
I feel that I have been privledged to start 2011 off by hearing this amazing and happy tears story about Ted. I am more inspired by this story than hearing about anyone hitting the lotto. God bless you Ted and thank you. I am soooooo sincerly happy for you. Luv, Maggie